A recent internet article highlights how walking for just 30 minutes every day can improve your health in more ways than you might expect. It can improve both your physical and mental well-being as follows:
Heart Health
Walking can lower the risk of heart disease and hence significantly reduce the risk of strokes. It can also help you maintain a healthy weight, blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Stress and Mood
Walking releases endorphins and this process brings about feelings of well-being, increased self-esteem, increased pain tolerance and even a sense of euphoria.
Depression
Physical activity can reduce depression. Even a low level of activity each week can significantly lower depression in adults compared with those who don’t exercise.
Joint Strength
Walking can play a major role in slowing the development and progression of osteoarthritis. It can also reduce joint pain, such as knee pain.
Blood Sugar
People who walk regularly have a 30% lower risk of developing Type 2 diabetes because walking can help control or lower blood sugar levels.
Immune Function
Exercises such as walking can significantly boost the immune function, potentially causing a change in the antibodies and white blood cells that help fight off illnesses. Walking may also flush bacteria from the lungs and airways, reducing the chances of catching cold and flu viruses.